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Morrison Planetarium

Our 75-foot dome displays one of the most accurate—and immersive—digital Universes ever created. From faraway galaxies to the workings of our own planet, you'll experience the cosmos like never before.

Morrison Planetarium shows are fueled by cutting-edge scientific data, resulting in stunning visualizations of the latest findings, discoveries, and theories about our Universe. Every star or galaxy a viewer encounters in the planetarium precisely mirrors a real-world counterpart, and when this virtual cosmos is projected onto Morrison's 75-foot-diameter screen (titled at a 30 degree angle), the dome itself seems to disappear.

The result—a sensation often described as flying—can be felt throughout a wide range of programming, from traditional star shows and special films, to live broadcasts from Academy scientists in the field, to films that explore the fragile ecosystems on planet Earth. Tickets to Morrison Planetarium shows are included in the price of admission. To get yours, just stop by the Planetarium kiosk when you arrive.

Please note: Morrison Planetarium will be closed February 23–25 for routine maintenance. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Habitat Earth

Join us in an exploration of what it means to live in today’s connected world. Narrated by Frances McDormand, and featuring stunning visualizations of both biological and human-built networks (and of how they intersect), Habitat Earth takes show-goers on an incredible, immersive journey through the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

2015 Pocket Almanac

Dome Details

Mimicking the tilt of planet Earth, the frame of the dome—composed of 100 percent recycled steel—supports a NanoSeam projection screen that seems to disappear when lit, creating a true-to-life recreation of luminous, faraway space and skies.

Extreme Life

Life may be far more resilient—and potentially more abundant—than we ever thought possible. In this live, 15-minute program hosted by planetarium staff in Hohfeld Hall, journey to extreme environments where hardy creatures thrive, and explore places elsewhere in our solar system where life might also exist.

From moon phases to meteor showers, from planetary activity to space-related anniversaries, our guides have it all! Created by Morrison Planetarium staff, these go-to resources cover events occurring between January and March of 2015.

California Academy of Sciences is home to engaging exhibits and shows, charismatic live animals from around the world, and a fascinating team of scientists and presenters working to explore, explain, and sustain the diversity of life.